The capital of Queensland invites you to discover shopping like never before

By
Umesh Bhagchandani on Aug 22, 2017

Photo: Photo Courtesy of ThinkStock

Ah Brisbane! When one think about Queensland’s magical capital city, it’s easy to conjure up mental image of dynamic art events and installations, an extensive café scene and gorgeous man-made beaches. But there are other things that many are not aware of Brisbane, including its vibrant shopping culture.

Shopping in Brisbane is an experience like never before. Ranging from high-fashion boutiques and independent stores to evolving market culture, Brisbane has a lot of things waiting to be discovered. Whether you plan to go on a shopping spree or indulge in one whole day of retail therapy (which, to be honest, would be difficult since there so are many things to discover!), we have listed down our own Indonesia Tatler shopping guide to Brisbane for an unparalleled shopping experience.

James Street

Photo: Photo Courtesy of Jamesst

Located in Fortitude Valley, James Street has, over the years, become known as Brisbane’s retail and lifestyle Mecca. And this is not surprising considering that the previously industrial area has slowly evolved into buzzing urban environs that feature more than 130 specialty shops that largely offer Australian designer products.

Try to visit Sass & Bide for its seasonal ready-to-wear apparel, Kookai for its Parisian chic attire, Scanlan Theodore for modern aestheticism and Witchery for a diverse range of men’s and women’s high-fashion clothing. Also, don’t forget to sample the delicious light bites and beverages that can be found at the eateries, cafés and bars along James Street.

Fortitude Valley

Photo: Photo Courtesy of Visitbrisbane

As one of the first Australian-oriented entertainment districts, Fortitude Valley has boasted a colourful shopping scene since the beginning of 1900 with multiple department stores. However, as time passed Fortitude Valley began to be perceived as the suburban hub of all things independent, from designer clothes to other unique findings.

Stroll along Ann Street (one of the four lanes in The Valley) and you will be amazed at the chic and independent fashion labels you can find there. Next, walk north from Ann Street to the Emporium Complex to indulge in a wide range of fashion labels, accessories and even eccentric homewares. Last, but not least, don’t forget to drop by Bakery Lane, a funky laneway that features myriad small designer boutiques (Stock & Supply and Bow & Arrow are notables), as well as local delicious treats.

Paddington

Photo: Photo Courtesy of Visitbrisbane

While the gorgeous clothing shopping choices in Brisbane mentioned above will send anyone who is fashion-obsessed to the moon and back, there are even more. Located west of the Brisbane CBD, Paddington is an area home to not only fashionable boutiques, but also to unique, beautiful antique stores, gift and jewel shops, dinnerware vendors and even shops that sell collectible products.

Try to visit Artisans Gems and Jewels for dazzling jewellery for your loved ones. Next, Biome is known for its organic beauty products. And don’t miss the lifestyle stores that sell everything from skincare products to homeware to tasty food. If you are travelling with your loved ones, then you’re in luck because Cocoon Petite Living is a home to quirky and adorable kids’ clothing for every child from babies to young adults.

Lastly, if you are in the mood for vintage shopping, then go to The Paddington Antique Centre, which is known for its retro clothing, accessories, furniture and even arts and crafts. With more than 50 dealers, visitors can expect everything vintage here.

Brisbane, Let’s Go!

Photo: Photo Courtesy of ThinkStock

Living in Indonesia may mean that we may not be accustomed to chilly winter weather and would prefer sun-kissed climates during our holiday. Guess what? You’re in luck, because Brisbane is known for its subtropical climate with only three winter months a year. And for a practical way of booking your ticket, log on to wego, the award-winning travel-search website and mobile app that automates the process of searching and which compares results from hundreds of travel products to provide you with the best deals at the right time.

As the capital city of the state of Queensland, Brisbane is also a haven of independent accommodation choices, which means that travellers can find cosy apartments for rent, comfortable inns and even stunning beach resorts for their stay. Remember, it’s recommended that you book your schedule before you go and you can do this easily by visiting Wego’s hotel booking service here.

With stunning vista, diverse and sumptuous food, warm weather, and, of course, a shopping paradise that caters for everyone, a trip to Brisbane is a must. See you there!